JP6629458B2 - Flavor provision device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a flavor delivery device for use with smoking articles, including an electronic aerosol delivery system and a flammable smoking article.

  Combustible smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars and cigarillos are often based on the burning of tobacco, but other plant materials such as herbs may be used. The basic taste, aroma and flavor of the tobacco or plant material may be provided as the overall flavor of the smoking article as perceived by the consumer during smoking, but to alter the flavor provided, for example, menthol It is known to add such additional flavors. Various arrangements for incorporation of flavors, such as by heating when a smoking article is ignited for smoking, or by crushing the capsule under the pressure of the consumer's hand, or mechanically tearing the tape A configuration is known in which a flavor emitted as a vapor is included in a suction air flow by an appropriate action.

  In recent years, the supply of flavor has been taken over from a combustible smoking article to an aerosol supply system such as an electronic cigarette. In general, e-cigarettes have a container for a source liquid, typically containing a formulation containing nicotine, or a container for a solid, such as a tobacco-derived product. An aerosol is generated from this container by vaporization by heat or other means. Thus, an aerosol source for an aerosol delivery system can include a heating element coupled to a portion of the source liquid from the container. When the user inhales the device, the heating element is activated and a small amount of the source liquid is vaporized and converted into an aerosol for the user to inhale. More specifically, such devices are typically provided with one or more air inlet holes located away from the system inlet. As the user inhales the mouthpiece, air passes through the inlet hole and through the aerosol source. There is an air flow path leading to the aerosol source and to the mouth opening, and the air passing through the aerosol source continues to flow along the air flow path to the mouth opening to convert some of the aerosol from the aerosol source into air. It is made to accompany. Aerosol entrained air exits the aerosol delivery system through the mouth opening for inhalation by the user. The incorporation of flavors into such a system is straightforward. That is, the flavor may be included in the raw material liquid such that the generated aerosol includes the volatile flavor component vaporized by the heating of the heating element. Due to the wide range of flavors available, electronic cigarettes may not provide the taste of traditional tobacco, but rather may provide a taste consisting solely of other flavors. Some systems allow consumers to blend different source liquids together, and then set the blend on an electronic cigarette and customize the flavor.

  However, in general, in both flammable smoking articles and other aerosol delivery systems, the flavor is present in each suction puff at a level that depends on the ratio of flavor to tobacco or raw liquid, and in the aspirated aerosol stream. Is supplied until all is consumed by vaporization. This may be before the tobacco or raw liquid has been consumed. Although flavor may be present and subsequently disappear, consumers have no control over the level and duration of flavor experienced.

  Therefore, there is an interest in means that allow consumers to control flavor delivery.

  According to a first aspect of some embodiments described herein, there is provided a flavor providing device for adding flavor to an aerosol stream generated by a smoking article, the device being adapted to be connected to a power source. And a portion of a flavor provider arranged to receive heat from the heating element, wherein the flavor supplier is held on a substrate material. A flavor material, wherein the flavor material is capable of forming a vapor and the carrier material is capable of softening under heating. Further, in this device, heat is applied to the flavoring material by supplying power to the heating element, so that at least a portion of the carrier material is softened and at least a portion of the flavoring material is released as steam. I have.

  The smoking article may be a flammable smoking article, and the flavor providing device may be configured to be provided on a smoking article holder for the flammable smoking article, comprising a power source. Alternatively, the smoking article may be an electronic aerosol supply system including a power source, and the flavor providing device is configured to be provided in the electronic aerosol supply system.

  The flavor providing device may further comprise a support member for supporting the heating element, the support member supporting an electrical contact configured to connect the heating element to a power source contained in an electronic aerosol delivery system or a smoking article holder. I do. Alternatively, the heating element may be configured to receive power supplied by electromagnetic induction.

  The flavor providing device may further comprise one or more separate portions of the flavoring material. One or more additional portions of the flavoring material can be disposed on each of the opposing surfaces of the support member. The flavor providing device may further comprise one or more additional heating elements configured to be individually powered. And, the flavor providing device may comprise an individual part of the flavor material arranged to receive heat from each of the heating elements.

  The carrier material may include a wax material.

  Providing power to the heating element to soften at least a portion of the carrier material may include supplying power to provide sufficient heat to melt at least a portion of the carrier material.

  According to a second aspect of some embodiments described herein, there is provided an electronic aerosol delivery system, a component of an electronic aerosol delivery system, or a smoking article holder, wherein the electronic aerosol delivery system, an electronic aerosol delivery system, The component, or smoking article holder, comprises a socket for receiving a flavor providing device according to the first aspect at a location in the electronic aerosol delivery system or the smoking article holder in electrical contact with a power source, from which the flavor providing is provided. Flavor material released by the device is allowed to flow into the air flow path of the aerosol flow through the electronic aerosol delivery system or smoking article holder.

  The socket may be configured to allow a user to remove and replace the flavor providing device.

  The electronic aerosol delivery system, components of the electronic aerosol delivery system, or the smoking article holder may include an external user-driven switch operable to disconnect the electrical heating element from the power supply. . Alternatively or additionally, the electronic aerosol delivery system, a component of the electronic aerosol delivery system, or the smoking article holder executes computer code stored in memory to control the supply of power from the power supply to the heating element. The computer may include a computer processor configured as described above and, optionally, further include a data transceiver configured to receive the updated computer code for storage in memory.

  In addition, the flavor providing device according to the first aspect includes a computer processor configured to execute computer code stored in a memory so as to control supply of power from a power supply to the heating element, and to store the computer code in the memory. And a data transceiver configured to receive the updated computer code.

  According to a third aspect of some embodiments described herein, there is provided a storage device, the storage device being computer code executable by a computer processor, wherein the storage device is a computer code. Displaying a user interface from the flavor providing device of claim 1 to prompt a user to enter control parameters related to adding flavor to an aerosol stream generated by an electronic aerosol delivery system or a flammable smoking article. Operable to cause a computing device to transmit data representing control parameters to a data transceiver in an electronic aerosol delivery system, a component of the electronic aerosol delivery system, a smoking article holder or a flavor providing device. Certain computer code can be stored.

  According to a fourth aspect of some embodiments described herein, there is provided a method of adding flavor to an aerosol stream generated by a smoking article, the method comprising: an electrical heating element; A part of the flavor supply material arranged to receive heat from the heating element, wherein the flavor supply material includes a flavor material held by the carrier material, and the flavor material emits steam. Placing a flavor-providing device, which can be generated and the carrier material can be softened under heating, into an electronic aerosol delivery system or smoking article holder, wherein the user inhales the electronic aerosol delivery system or smoking article holder; During this time, power is supplied to the heating element from a power supply in an electronic aerosol supply system or a smoking article holder, and this supply of power adds heat to the flavorant supply. Softening at least a portion of the carrier material and releasing at least some of the flavoring material as vapor, and directing the released vapor to an aerosol stream flowing through an air flow path through an electronic aerosol delivery system or smoking article holder. Providing.

  The method includes transmitting control parameter data from a computer device to a data transceiver in an electronic aerosol delivery system, a smoking article holder or a flavor providing device, and controlling the control parameter in the electronic aerosol delivery system, the smoking article holder or the flavor providing device. Controlling the supply of power to the heating element with a computer processor executing computer code according to the data.

  According to a fifth aspect of some embodiments described herein, there is provided a flavor providing device for adding flavor to an inhalable air stream generated by an electronic cigarette, the flavor providing device comprising a support. A member, an electric heating element provided on the support member, and an electric connection between the battery and the electric heating element in the electronic cigarette when the flavor providing device is inserted into the electronic cigarette. The configured electrical contacts provided on the support member, and a portion of the flavoring material disposed on the supporting member to cover the electrical heating element, wherein the flavoring material is applied to the matrix material. A portion of flavoring material comprising a retained flavoring material, wherein the flavoring material is capable of forming a vapor, and which can be melted when the matrix material is heated, to an electrical heating element. The supply of electric power, heat is applied to the flavor material, the melted matrix material, so as to release vapors of flavorants feed material.

  These correspondences and other aspects of particular embodiments are set forth in the independent and dependent claims of the appended claims. It is to be understood that features in the dependent claims may be combined with one another and with features of the independent claims in other combinations than those expressly recited in the claims. Furthermore, the means described herein are not limited to the specific embodiments as set forth below, but include and take into account any suitable combinations of the features presented herein. For example, the flavor providing device may be provided according to the means described in this document, which appropriately includes any one or more of the various features described below.

  Hereinafter, various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings as examples only.

1 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary aerosol delivery system in which embodiments of the present invention may be implemented. FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of a portion of an exemplary aerosol delivery system incorporating an exemplary flavor providing device. FIG. 2 shows a plan view of a first exemplary flavor providing device. FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a second exemplary flavor providing device. FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a third exemplary flavor providing device. FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a fourth exemplary flavor providing device. FIG. 4 shows a plan view of another exemplary flavor providing device. FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of yet another exemplary flavor providing device. FIG. 4 illustrates an end view of an exemplary cartridge assembly element in an aerosol delivery system containing an exemplary flavor providing device. FIG. 7 illustrates an end view of another exemplary cartridge assembly element of an aerosol delivery system containing an exemplary flavor providing device. FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a first exemplary aerosol delivery system including a flavor providing device. FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of a second exemplary aerosol delivery system including a flavor providing device. FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of a third exemplary aerosol delivery system including a flavor providing device. FIG. 2 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a first exemplary smoking article holder incorporating a flavor providing device. FIG. 4 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a second exemplary smoking article holder incorporating a flavor providing device.

  Aspects and features of particular examples and embodiments are discussed and described herein. However, some aspects and features of the specific examples and embodiments may be embodied in the prior art in general and are not described in detail for brevity. Thus, it will be appreciated that aspects and features of the devices and methods discussed herein that have not been described in detail may be embodied according to any conventional technique for embodying such aspects and features.

  Aspects of the present disclosure relate to smoking articles. In the context of the present disclosure, this term refers to combustible smoking articles (e.g., cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, or other articles based on the burning of tobacco or other plant material) and, e.g., electronic aerosol delivery systems. Including both electronic smoking products.

  Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to, but are not limited to, electronic aerosol delivery systems, such as e-cigarettes. Throughout the following description, the term “e-cigarette” or “electronic cigarette” may be used. However, it will be understood that the term may be used interchangeably with aerosol (vapor) delivery systems and electronic aerosol (vapor) delivery systems.

  FIG. 1 is a very schematic illustration (not to scale) of an aerosol / vapor delivery system, such as an e-cigarette 10, to which some embodiments are applicable. The e-cigarette has a generally cylindrical shape extending along a longitudinal axis indicated by dashed lines and comprises two main components: a body 20 and a cartridge assembly 30.

  Cartridge assembly 30 includes a container 38 containing a source liquid containing an aerosol-generating liquid composition, including, for example, nicotine, and a heating element or heater 40 for heating the source liquid to generate an aerosol. . The raw material liquid and the heater 40 can be collectively referred to as an aerosol source. The cartridge assembly 30 further includes a mouthpiece 35 having an opening for the user to inhale the aerosol generated by the heater 40. The aerosol for inhalation can be described as an aerosol stream or an inhalable air stream. The feed liquid comprises, by way of example, about 1-3% nicotine and 50% glycerol, the balance comprising approximately equal amounts of water and propylene glycol, and possibly other components.

  The body 20 includes a rechargeable battery or battery 54 (hereinafter “battery”) for powering the e-cigarette 10, a printed circuit board (PCB) 28 for overall control of the e-cigarette, and And / or electronic circuits. In use, heater 40 receives power from battery 54, possibly controlled by circuit board 28 in response to a pressure change detected by a pneumatic sensor (not shown), so that heater 40 dispenses the source liquid at the heating position. Evaporate to generate an aerosol, which is then aspirated by the user through the opening of the mouthpiece 35. When the user inhales the mouthpiece, the aerosol is transported from the aerosol source to the mouthpiece 35 along an air channel (not shown in FIG. 1) connecting the aerosol source to the mouthpiece opening.

  In this particular example, the body 20 and the cartridge assembly 30 can be detached from each other by separating them in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis as shown in FIG. By cooperating with engagement devices 21, 31 (e.g., screws or bayonet fittings) to allow mechanical and electrical connection with the cartridge assembly 30, the body 20 and the cartridge assembly 30 can be moved together. Be combined. The electrical connector interface on the body 20 used to connect to the cartridge assembly 30 provides an interface for connecting the body 20 to a charging device (not shown) when the body 20 is removed from the cartridge assembly 30. Can also work. The other end of the charging device can be plugged into an external power source, such as a USB socket, to charge or recharge the battery 54 in the e-cigarette body 20. In other embodiments, a separate charging interface may be provided, for example, to allow the battery 54 to be charged while connected to the cartridge assembly 30.

  The e-cigarette 10 is provided with one or more holes for air inlets (not shown in FIG. 1). These holes in the outer wall of the body 20 (but in other examples on the outer wall of the cartridge assembly 30) connect the air flow path through the e-cigarette 10 to the mouthpiece 35. The air flow path includes a pressure sensing area within the body 20 (not shown in FIG. 1), and the air flow path extends from the body 20 into the cartridge assembly 30 around the heating element 40. To allow the air to be drawn into the air flow path through one or more air inlet holes when the user sucks the suction port 35. This air flow (or the resulting pressure change) is detected by a pressure sensor (not shown in FIG. 1) in communication with the air flow path, which activates heater 40 (through operation of circuit board 28). When activated, a portion of the source liquid is evaporated to produce an aerosol. The air flow flows through the air flow path and combines with the vapor in the area around the heater 40, and the resulting aerosol (combination of air flow and condensed vapor) is sucked from the area of the heater 40 by the user through the suction port 35. Is carried as an aerosol flow along an air flow path connected to the aerosol.

  In some examples, the removable cartridge assembly 30 is discarded when there is no supply of source liquid and is replaced with another cartridge assembly as needed. In another example, more source liquid may be refilled. The body 20 may also be reusable by recharging the battery, for example, to allow more than one year of operation by connecting to a series of removable disposable cartridge assemblies.

  The aerosol supply system 10 further includes a flavor providing device 25. In this example, the flavor providing device 25 is disposed in the cartridge assembly 30. The device operates to flavor or provide the aerosol stream in a controllable manner, as described below. Thus, the device is arranged such that the air flow path and the air flow are in communication, so that the flavor provided by the device is taken into the air flowing through the air flow path, thereby via the mouth It is adapted to be incorporated into the aerosol stream sent to the user. The flavor providing device may be arranged upstream or downstream of the heater 40 and the reservoir 38 with respect to the direction of the air flow. Thus, flavor may be provided to the air stream before the aerosol is generated or to the aerosol stream once generated. In the former case, the flavor providing device may be arranged in the main body (battery) part 20 instead of the cartridge assembly 30. The flavor providing device can be incorporated as a permanent component of any part, particularly if the cartridge assembly 30 is intended to be disposable. Alternatively, the flavor-providing device is a separate consumable element that the user inserts into one or the other part of the e-cigarette as needed, when the flavor is consumed or a different flavor is desired. The consumable element may be replaced. In such a case, the flavor-providing device is conveniently contained within the e-cigarette at a location adjacent to the engagement elements 21, 31 to facilitate access when the two parts of the e-cigarette are separated. It is. For example, if the cartridge assembly 30 or body 20 is configured to be separable elsewhere away from the engagement element, or an access slot or doorway is provided for inserting the flavor providing device through the outer wall of the e-cigarette. If so, other locations may be used.

  FIG. 2 shows a schematic longitudinal sectional view through an intermediate portion of an exemplary e-cigarette similar to that of FIG. This e-cigarette connects the cartridge assembly 30 and the body 20, which are shown in separate configurations. In this example, the cartridge assembly 30 and the side walls 32, 22 of the body 20 are shaped to allow a push-fit (snap-fit, bayonet connection or screw connection may also be used). Thereby, the engagement elements 21 and 31 are engaged, and the battery 54 in the main body 20, the heater 40, and the flavor providing device 25 in the cartridge assembly 30 are electrically connected. The side wall 22 of the body 20 has a pair of holes 24 (more or fewer holes may be used) to allow the inflow of air, indicated by arrow A. The hole connects to a first portion of a central air flow path of a channel 56 disposed within the body 20, the first portion being disposed within the cartridge assembly 30 when the cartridge assembly 30 and the body 20 are coupled. Coupled to a second portion of the open air flow channel 56 to form a continuous air flow channel 56 to the mouthpiece (the air flow therein is indicated by arrow A). . Heater 40 is positioned within the airflow channel so that if a user sucks in the mouthpiece and draws air through hole 24, the air is drawn across the heater and can collect the evaporated source liquid. Has become. The heater 40 receives a supply of raw liquid from an e-cigarette container (not shown in FIG. 2), for example, by a wicking phenomenon (depending on the material and structure of the heating element). The change in air pressure caused by the aspiration is detected and power is supplied from battery 54 to heater 40 (under control of circuit board 28) to provide the heating and evaporation required to produce the aerosol stream.

  Further, electric power for heating is supplied from the battery 54 to the flavor providing device 25. In this example, the device 25 is located on the side wall of the air flow channel 56 adjacent to the connecting end of the cartridge assembly 30 so that it can emit flavor directly into the flowing air, and When 30 is separated from body 20, it can be easily inserted and removed by the user. The flavor F is discharged from the flavor providing device 25 in a vaporized state while current is applied from the battery 54, provided directly in the air flow path 56, and taken out by the air flow A. The flavor is conveyed along the airflow channel 56 to the heater 40 where the aerosol is generated, and is thus entrained in the aerosol stream.

  Note that in this example, the flavor providing device is shown positioned directly in the airflow channel 56. This is not required and, alternatively, the device may be located in a separate chamber, slot or other opening from the airflow channel, but through which the airflow passes to transfer flavor to the aerosol stream. Need to be.

  FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a first example of the flavor providing device 25. Apparatus 25 includes a support member 60, which is preferably flat, but may have other configurations for more efficient mounting within a particular configuration of e-cigarettes, for example. For example, it may be tubular or ring shaped to surround the air flow channel. The support member 60, which should be electrically insulating, may be formed, for example, from a fiberglass substrate, but other materials may be used. Two or more electrical connectors 62 are formed on the surface of the support member 60 so that when the device 25 is inserted into an e-cigarette, the electrical connector will be an e-cigarette battery (such as the battery 54 of FIGS. 1 and 2). ) Is in electrical contact with another connector that is electrically connected to the connector. The electrical connector 62 is a connector for supplying electric power to the heating element 64 disposed on or in the support member 60. FIG. 3 shows a heating element 64 having meandering windings provided across the support member 60, but other elements may be zigzag, curved, helical, linear, or otherwise shaped. And / or two or more individual heating elements may be provided in any shape or pattern.

  A flavoring material or flavoring material 66 is disposed as a layer on the surface of the support member 60 so as to cover at least a portion of the area functioned by the heating element 64. The flavoring material comprises a matrix material or carrier material that carries the flavoring material therein. The flavoring material can be any flavoring material that can be transported by the air stream and entrained in the aerosol stream, or can take the form of a vapor as either a gas or a droplet. Thus, flavors can be volatile substances. The vapor state may exist at typical room temperature or may be formed from a liquid or solid flavor material under the action of heat. The matrix or carrier material can be any suitable material that has a solid or near solid state (eg, gum or paste) at room temperature and can retain the incorporated flavoring material. For example, the flavoring material may be formed in a mixture with the matrix material (eg, a liquid flavor mixed with the matrix material) or encapsulated (eg, in microcapsules by any known technique); The capsule may be a capsule mixed with a matrix material, or the matrix material may be a lattice structure and a flavoring material injected or deposited in the grids (eg, by immersing the matrix material in a bath of liquid material). And may be formed by In addition, the matrix material has the property of changing state when heated, so that the heat applied by the heating element causes the matrix material to change from one state to another, especially the solid state or the gel state From the liquid state to the liquid state or to the liquid state in whole or in part. The heated and thereby softened matrix material can release the flavourant material therefrom. In some cases, the matrix material only needs to change towards a liquid state (less solids), and in some cases, the matrix material becomes liquid, ie, melts. In the context of the present disclosure, a matrix material is considered to soften under heating to release a flavoring material, where softening refers to becoming less solid and becoming a liquid or near liquid. The amount (degree) of softening required depends in part on the volatility of the flavor and the manner in which the flavor is retained in the matrix material. Flavors with higher volatility can be released from the slightly softened matrix, for example, through interstitial spaces in the matrix or by breaking the surrounding matrix material if the vapor pressure is high enough. Lower volatility may require melting of the matrix for the flavor to be released. Some flavors require complete collapse, degradation, or other degradation of the structure of the matrix material for release, which can be achieved by melting. The term "softening" is intended to cover all of these various changes, where a complete or partial heat-induced state change to a less solid form is necessary to release the flavor from the matrix. It shows that it is provided by a heating element. Flavors can be vaporized directly from the matrix material, if possible, under a heating action that allows the vapors to be expelled from the matrix material. Alternatively, by softening the matrix material and / or the encapsulating material, the flavor can be released as a still evaporating liquid or directly into a vapor state.

  Suitable materials for the matrix or carrier include waxes (typically lipophilic and non-porous; animal waxes such as beeswax, mineral waxes such as montan wax, petroleum waxes such as paraffin wax, polyethylene waxes). And polypropylene wax and other polyolefin waxes, and plant waxes such as candelilla wax, carnauba wax, caster wax and soy wax), gelatin, alginate gums (xanthan gum and the like), and starch. The purpose of the matrix material is to retain the flavor material such that the loss of flavor material from the matrix material at typical room temperature (e.g., 15-30C) is minimal (zero or very low). On the other hand, when heat is applied to soften the matrix material, the flavor material is released as steam. Temperatures in the range of 25 ° C to 70 or 80 ° C, 25 ° C to 60 ° C, 30 ° C to 70 ° C, 30 ° C to 80 ° C, 40 ° C to 70 ° C, or 40 ° C to 80 ° C are the required release of flavor material. , But the exact temperature is chosen based on the type of matrix material and the type of flavoring material. For example, higher temperatures may be used, e.g. The heating element and the supply of current from the battery to the heating element can be configured to heat to an appropriate level to reach a desired temperature for the flavoring material. Heating should be achieved within the time scale in which the flavor is delivered to the aerosol stream as the user inhales, and therefore should preferably be fairly rapid. For example, the required heating of the flavoring material may be started at the same time as the start of the suction or within 0.5 seconds of the start of the suction. In another configuration, for example, under user control, the heater can be activated prior to the suction start time to enhance the flavor as soon as the user suctions. The current for heating is supplied for a fixed duration (which may be variable between aspirations, but may have a duration of about 1 second, typically 3 seconds at the beginning of the aspiration), Thereafter, the matrix material is cooled and allowed to cure / re-solidify to normal room temperature conditions to retain the remaining flavor material. To avoid loss of flavor material between puffs, a matrix material that can be cooled relatively quickly may be preferred. Flavoring released in the second half of inhalation is not effectively delivered to the user and is actually discarded, so heating for less than the desired inhalation time (e.g., 3 seconds) requires preservation of the flavoring material. It may be preferable.

  The thickness of the layer of flavoring material 66 depends on factors based on the total amount of flavoring material desired to be provided in a single device, and how quickly heat is transferred from heating element 64 to the exterior surface of the flavoring material. Depending on whether it can be sent (this speed is determined by factors based on the thermal properties of the flavoring material), a choice can be made.

  The layer of flavoring material can be applied to the support member 60 in any suitable manner, taking into account the form of the material and the required thickness. Thicker materials such as pastes, gums or waxes may be spread or spread, for example, by injecting or depositing a portion of the flavoring material onto the surface of the support member, passing the support member through a spreading blade or moving between rollers. By doing so, it can be applied. The material can be heated to soften it slightly and aid spreading, but the temperature should be kept below the temperature at which the flavoring material is released. In another example, the flavorant is sprayed, painted or printed on a support member and dried to form the required layer (eg, an encapsulated flavorant suspended in a liquid matrix material). ). Multiple layers may be applied to achieve a desired thickness. Alternatively, when a liquid or semi-liquid composition is used, the support member is immersed in a container of the flavoring material only on the surface where a part of the flavoring is first adhered to one surface of the supporting member, or If a part of the support member is required on both sides of the support member, its edge may be immersed. In yet another example, a portion of the flavoring agent can be formed into a solid or semi-solid hard or flexible tablet or lozenge that can be adhered to the surface of the support member.

  The flavoring agent adds flavor and / or aroma to the aerosol air stream (in addition to any flavor provided from the source liquid, although the flavor providing device can use a flavor providing device if desired). It was intended. As used herein, the terms "flavoring" and "flavoring" may be used (where permitted by local regulations) to impart the desired taste or aroma in adult consumer products. A material that can be made. These materials include extracts (e.g., licorice, hydrangea, bonsai leaves, chamomile, fenugreek, cloves, menthol, Japanese peppermint, aniseed, cinnamon, herbs, wintergreen, cherries, berries, peaches, apples, drambuy, bourbon, scotch) , Whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang ylang, sage Fennel, pepper, ginger, anise, coriander, coffee, or mint oil from any species of the genus genus), flavor enhancers, bitter container site blockers, sensory container site activation Or sensory receptor site stimulants, sugars and / or alternative sugars (eg, sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, ticlo, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives (eg, Charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath fresheners). These may be imitations, synthetic or natural materials, or mixtures thereof. These can take any suitable form, such as oils, liquids or powders, capable of emitting a flavor vapor.

  FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the flavor providing device. In this example, a heating element 64 is formed on the outer surface of the support member 60. This can be done, for example, by forming the resistor wires using any conventional technique for manufacturing printed circuit boards. Other techniques can also be suitably used. The heating element 64 is connected at its end to the connector 62 by a conductive element 65. It should be noted that the conductive element 65 is shown passing through the support member 60 for clarity, but is preferably applied to the surface together with the heating element 64 and the connector 62, if possible in a single manufacturing step. Can be formed. Subsequently, a portion of the flavoring material 66 is applied as a layer over the heating element 64.

  FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a further exemplary flavor providing device. In this example, the heating element 64 is located not on its surface but inside the thickness of the support member 60. Such a structure can be manufactured, for example, by sandwiching a resistance wire between two layers of a fiberglass substrate or other substrate. The heating element 64 is connected by a conductive element 65 to a connector 62 on the surface of the support member 60. Depending on the structure of the e-cigarette for which the flavor-providing device is intended to be used, and the relative location of the electrical connections and airflow channels, a portion of the flavoring material 66 may be attached to any of the support members 60. It can also be formed on the surface. Although FIG. 5 shows a portion 66 of the flavoring material formed on the same surface as the electrical connector 62, it may be formed on the opposite surface. For example, it may be preferable to configure the e-cigarette electrical connector to connect to a side of the flavor providing device that is remote from the portion of the air flow path where the flavoring material is exposed.

  FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating another example of the flavor providing device. This example has the same structure as FIG. 5 in which the heating element 64 is disposed in the support member 60. The difference from the example of FIG. 5 is that a part of the flavor supply material 66 is formed on both surfaces of the support member 60. This configuration is used in e-cigarettes that are configured such that air or aerosol flowing through the airflow channel passes on both sides of the flavoring device to collect flavor vapors released from both portions of the flavoring material. What you get. This can, for example, double the amount of flavoring carried by a single device, or diminish the heating effect so that it can reach the surface of the portion of the flavoring material more quickly. Allows to be divided into two thinner layers. Alternatively, if the support member is sufficiently thin and / or the heating element has good thermal conductivity sufficient to transfer sufficient heat energy through the thickness of the support member to the flavoring material on both sides. Alternatively, a part of the flavoring material may be applied to both sides of the supporting member even in a device having a surface-supporting heating element.

  In any embodiment, the electrical connectors 62 can be appropriately located on either side of the support member 60, or alternatively, a pair of connectors 62 can be provided with one connector 62 on the first side of the support member 60. And the other connector 62 can be arranged so that it is on the second surface of the support member 60. Alternatively, one or both of connectors 62 may be located on one or more edges of support member 60. Any location may be used to form a connection that makes a connection with the connector at a preferred location within the e-cigarette.

  3 to 6 have a single heating element. In another example, two or more individual heating elements may be provided. A plurality of heating elements functioning a portion of the same flavoring feed to improve control of the overall heating level, and thus control of the overall level of flavor release occurring at any given time; It may be individually or jointly addressable depending on the choice. Alternatively, separate portions of the flavoring material may be arranged to be heated by separate heating elements. In that case, the heating elements may be configured to be sequentially addressed (activated) so that the second portion can provide the flavor after the first portion has been consumed. Alternatively, the heating elements may be individually actuated according to consumer choices to release flavor from selected portions as needed. In this aspect, one or more flavors can be delivered from a single flavor provider.

  The heating elements may be arranged to function on both sides of the support member or to function different areas of the same surface of the support member. Thus, various portions of the flavoring material can be applied to the support member corresponding to the heating element. The heating element may be provided on the surface of the support member as shown in FIG. 4 or may be provided inside the thickness of the support member as shown in FIGS.

  FIG. 7 is a plan view showing a first exemplary device having two heating elements. In this example, two heating elements 64a, 64b having corresponding electrical connectors 62a, 62b are arranged side by side on the same surface of the support member 60. Each surface has a corresponding flavor feed portion 66a, 66b. These parts can be different flavors or can be the same flavor.

  FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a second exemplary device having two heating elements. In this example, two heating elements 64a, 64b having corresponding electrical connectors 62a, 62b are arranged one on each side of the support member 60. Each surface has a corresponding flavor feed portion 66a, 66b, which can be the same flavor or different flavors.

  These designs can be extended to provide any number of individual heating elements located on one or both sides of the support member. Each heating element can function a separate portion of the flavor feed, or a single portion of the flavor feed can cover more than one heating element.

  In yet another design, a flavor-providing device includes a heating element and a portion of the flavor-providing material in contact with the heating element, without the support member. If the heating element is formed, for example, from a hard or elastic wire or stamped or cut from a metal of suitable thickness and is configured to be highly self-supporting, May not be required. The heating element may have a surface coating of the flavoring material (e.g., formed by dipping the heating element in the liquid composition of the flavoring material), or the solid of the flavoring material or It may be coated or wrapped or inserted around a semi-solid part. The end of the heating element may be formed as an electrical connector for insertion into a socket connector in the electronic cigarette to make the necessary electrical connection with the battery.

  The e-cigarette receives, holds and accommodates the flavor-providing device, makes the necessary electrical connections to the electrical connectors of the heating element, and provides power to the heating element from the battery of the e-cigarette, with sockets, recesses, and openings. , Cavities, receivers, or the like. The socket may be configured such that the flavor-providing device can be removed by a user and replaced with another device, or the flavor-providing device may be provided as a non-replaceable part in a disposable cartridge assembly. Good (in this case no access to the flavor providing device is required and it can be sealed inside the assembly in an inaccessible location). Any configuration can be utilized to house the flavor providing device.

  FIG. 9 is a schematic view showing a first configuration example of the flavor providing device in the cartridge assembly 30. This is a cartridge removed from a main body (battery) portion when the inside of the cartridge assembly is viewed. Shown as an end view of the assembly. Also, not all components are shown. The cartridge assembly 30 has a circular cross-section bounded by an outer wall 32 and has an air flow channel 56 formed substantially centrally therein. The heating element 40 of the aerosol source is visible inside the channel. The flavor providing device 25 is inserted into a socket on one side of the airflow channel. A pair of mutually facing U-shaped tracks (tracks) 70a and 70b that receive and grip the opposite end of the flavor providing device 25 are provided. The device 25 can be slid into these tracks 70a, 70b, which guide the device 25 to a receiving position where an electrical connection is made. The tracks 70a, 70b may be conductive (made, for example, from a metallic conductive material) to form an electronic cigarette electrical connector for connection to an electrical connector on the flavor providing device 25, or may be electrically conductive. A connector may be provided, or the flavor providing device 25 may be shaped so as to guide the flavor providing device 25 to a position where it comes into contact with an electrical connector provided in another part of the electronic cigarette. As shown, the trucks 70a, 70b hold the flavor providing device 25 away from adjacent walls of the airflow channel 56 so that air can flow along both sides of the flavor providing device 25. Thus, the device 25 can have a portion of the flavoring material on each surface, if desired. Alternatively, tracks 70a, 70b may hold device 25 substantially flush with the airflow channel walls so that air can flow along only one surface.

  FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing a second configuration example of the flavor providing device in the cartridge assembly 30, which is also shown in an end view. This configuration holds the flavor providing device 25 in the same place as in the example of FIG. There is a shallow recess 72 in the side wall of the airflow channel into which the flavor providing device 25 can be pushed. An elastic biasing or spring-loaded arm 74, one end of which is attached to a portion of the cartridge assembly, extends over recess 72 and presses mounted device 25 to place it in place. And this is similar to the manner in which the subscriber identity module (SIM) is maintained in the mobile phone. For example, an arm 74 formed from a curved metal may form an electrical connector if itself is properly shaped, otherwise a connector may be provided on the arm. Alternatively, the device 25 may simply be held in its proper position in contact with the electrical connector within the cartridge assembly 25.

  In both the examples of FIGS. 9 and 10, the flavor providing device is easily accessible from the open end of the removed cartridge assembly, so that the user can remove and replace it if necessary. it can. These examples are not limiting and any of the alternative configurations for receiving, holding, and connecting the flavor providing device can be used as needed. Many alternatives will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

  In order for the user to control the provision of flavor, the heating element of the flavor providing device may be provided with a power supply capable of supplying power independently of supplying power to the heater of the aerosol source. If the heating element and heater simultaneously receive power from the battery in response to changes in air pressure caused by suction, flavor is provided in a puff-by-puff manner until all of the flavor material is released. By decoupling the heating element power supply from the heater power supply and making it independent, the flavor can be increased or increased as desired by the user, e.g., in each puff or only a few puffs. Can be supplied in small quantities.

  This control can be implemented in various ways. A simple example is a switch external to the electronic cigarette, which can be activated to add flavor during any inhalation desired by the user. Power can be supplied to the heating element whenever the switch is activated and not when the switch is deactivated. Alternatively, the switch can be actuated to turn on the heating element as desired by the user, but if not already turned off, so that the flavor-providing device does not remain on for an extended period of time. At the end, the power supply (detected by the pressure sensor used to control the power supply to the aerosol source) is automatically terminated. This increases safety to avoid overheating and limits the release of flavors for the time actually required, so that no flavor is wasted. As an extension of this configuration, the switch can be configured such that it cannot be operated to turn on the heating element unless suction is detected by the pressure sensor. In this embodiment, the heating element can be activated only while the user is inhaling the electronic cigarette.

  The switches can take any suitable form, such as touch-sensitive switches, push buttons, toggle switches, slide switches, and the like. The switch can be located on any outer part of the e-cigarette, which is a position where the user can easily manipulate the switch when holding the e-cigarette during inhalation, but accidentally. It is preferable that the position is such that an intentional action is required to operate the switch to avoid operation. If the switch is provided on the body part that houses the battery, the switch is not included as part of the disposable cartridge assembly and can have a long life. However, it may be located on the cartridge assembly if desired.

  FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram schematically showing an electronic cigarette configured to have a switch for operating the flavor providing device. As in the example of FIG. 1, the electronic cigarette 10 includes a cartridge assembly 30 connectable to the main body portion 20. The cartridge assembly 30 includes an aerosol source including a container 38 and a heater 40 and a flavor providing device 25. Accommodating. The main body 20 contains a battery and a PCB 28 having a pressure sensor. By connecting the cartridge assembly 30 to the main body 20, an electrical connection is formed between the two parts so that the battery can supply power to the heater 40 and the flavor providing device 25. The PCB 28 controls the supply of electric power to the heater (via a circuit (not shown)) in response to a pressure change detected by the pressure sensor. The main body 20 further includes a user-operable external switch or button 76 provided on an outer surface of the main body for activating a switch 78 in a circuit in the main body. When the switch 78 is closed, power is supplied from the battery 54 to the heating element of the flavor providing device 25. The PCB may be joined to this circuit and may be suitably configured to allow further control so that the switch 78 can be closed only during the time when the pressure sensor detects suction, as described above. . Otherwise, the PCB will maintain switch 78 in the open position to disable the heating element of the flavor providing device.

  The switch-operated flavor providing device allows the user to select whether or not to add a flavor in any papu, and keeps the switch closed for a longer time or a shorter time, thereby providing a flavor for each puff. Can be controlled. However, higher levels of control can be achieved by providing programmable control over the operation of the heating element.

  FIG. 12 is a highly simplified (not to scale) illustration of an exemplary electronic cigarette configured for programmable control. The electronic cigarette 10 includes the same components as in the example of FIG. 11, and the battery 54 in the main body portion 20 supplies power to the flavor providing device 25 in the cartridge assembly 30 via a circuit. The PCB 28, which enables the overall operation control of the components in the electronic cigarette 10, controls the power supply from the battery 54 to the flavor providing device 25. The PCB 28 includes a microprocessor 78 and a memory 79 having computer code executable by the microprocessor 78, and controls how and when the battery operates one or more heating elements of the flavor providing device. Control may be subject to the following control parameters: That is, which heating element to activate (if there is more than one), which puff to activate the heating element (for example, all puffs, alternate puffs, the first one after turning on the electronic cigarette) , Two or three puffs, etc.), how much power to supply (to control how much the heating element is heated and how much flavor is released), how long, the initial puff Or according to control parameters such as.

  The stored computer code can be updated or reprogrammed to allow a user to customize these parameters. PCB 28 includes a data transmission / reception element 80 configured to wirelessly communicate with a transmission / reception element 84 of computer device 82. The transmitting / receiving element is configured to establish a wireless communication path 81. This can be done by any suitable wireless method, such as Bluetooth®, radio frequency communication or infrared signal. Computer device 82 can receive user input and transmit this information via wireless communication path 81 (such as a mobile phone, smartphone, tablet device, smartwatch, laptop computer or desktop). A computer or the like (not limited to these) can be used. Appropriate software (e.g., downloadable from the Internet or installed by the user according to the type of electronic cigarette the user has) to enable programming of the flavor providing device 25 is enabled on the computer device 82. Stuff) are provided. Display 83 of computing device 82 presents a user interface that prompts the user to enter appropriate information to configure the control parameters. For example, a list of available flavors may be presented for selection, and the user may select which puff to add flavor and enter the desired flavor level in each selected puff. Good. This may be done, for example, by a slide control allowing selection of a flavor level between a maximum and a minimum, in which case the computing device 82 and / or the microprocessor 78 of the PCB 28 may The level is converted to the amount of power needed to provide that flavor level. When all the parameters are set to the user's satisfaction, for example, in response to the user operation of the "OK" or "STORE" control on the user interface, data representing the parameters is transmitted from the computer device 82 to the communication path. It is transferred to the electronic cigarette 10 via 81. The data is stored in memory 79 for execution by microprocessor 78 during subsequent use of electronic cigarette 10.

  For control purposes, the data transmission / reception element may be configured for data reception only. However, if the electronic cigarette is also configured for transmission, e.g., when the flavoring device is about to end (e.g., a heating charge provided to release flavor from the time the device is put into service) Can be communicated to the user's device to notify (if all of the flavor has been released). The electronic cigarette can also automatically notify the computer device of the type or type of flavoring installed so that the computer device can prompt the user to program the appropriate control parameters. To achieve this, the flavor providing device 25 may include software readable by the microprocessor 78 via the circuit or an identification code embedded in the circuit. If not, the user can enter the device type into the computing device, for example, by selecting the device type from a list presented by a user interface. In that case, the computing device may present an appropriate user interface for programming parameters associated with a particular flavor providing device.

  Alternatively, the electronic cigarette may be configured to program the computing device via a wired connection. FIG. 13 is a very simplified (not to scale) illustration of such a configuration. The electronic cigarette 10 has a data socket 86 into which a data transfer cable 85 can be inserted, so that the electronic cigarette 10 can be connected to a computer device 82 (in this example, a desktop computer system). Although any data transfer protocol may be used, the data transfer may be via USB or Ethernet, for example. Preferably, the data socket 86 can also be embodied as a charging socket for charging the battery of the electronic cigarette, for which a USB port is useful, for example. Otherwise, the system may be operated in the same or similar manner as described with respect to FIG. The computing device has software for presenting a user interface for input of the desired control parameters by the user, which are transferred via the data cable 85 to the memory of the electronic cigarette.

  It should be noted that the function of the PCB (or other electronic device) and its components may be achieved using any combination of software, hardware and firmware as needed.

  While the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to an electronic cigarette or other aerosol and vapor supply system, the invention is not so limited. Some embodiments can be used to add flavor to conventional, conventional flammable smoking articles, such as based on tobacco consumption.

  To achieve this, it has been proposed to provide a holder for flammable smoking articles, wherein a user draws through the holder to consume the flammable smoking article in the manner of a conventional cigarette holder. In this case, the holder can house and operate a flavor providing device such as any of the examples described above.

  FIG. 14 is a simplified schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the combustible smoking article holder 100. The holder 100, which may be made of molded plastic or other material, is of a substantially tubular structure, the central hole of which is an opening 102 at the end of the flammable smoking article (the flammable smoking article 104 is inserted for consumption). And an air passage 156 extending between the opening 135 and the suction port 135. When the combustible smoking article 104 is inserted into the holder 100 and lit, the user sucks the mouthpiece. This draws air into the tobacco rod 106 of the flammable smoking article, where it collects smoke, nicotine and other components emitted from the burning tobacco in a conventional manner. This is drawn through the combustible smoking article filter 108 (in the case of filterless, simply out of the end of the combustible smoking article) and into the air flow path 156 in the holder 100, so that the user can inhale. Suction the air through the mouth. This air flow A corresponds to the e-cigarette aerosol flow, and for the purposes of this disclosure, these terms are interchangeable.

  The holder 100 is configured such that the flavor providing device 25 can be inserted, and the flavor F emitted from the flavor material portion 66 on the device 25 is taken up by the airflow through the holder, thereby delivering from the flammable smoking article. Flavor is added to the gas. The holder 100 has a slot 101 on the side wall thereof into which the flavor providing device can be inserted. The slot 101 is provided in a socket 103 in the form of a recess provided on the side surface of the air flow path 156 that receives and holds the flavor providing device 25 at a position where the flavor released from the flavor providing device 25 communicates with the air flow channel 156. Can be accessed. Alternatively, the holder may be configured and designed to receive and hold the flavor providing device in any other suitable manner. The holder 100 includes a battery 154 and PCB 128 or other control electronics similar to those described above with respect to the example of an electronic cigarette (in some embodiments, a pressure to detect when a user draws through the holder 100). Including a detector). The electrical contacts and circuits connect the attached flavor provider 25 to the battery 154 to supply power to the heating elements of the flavor provider 25. The PCB and its microprocessor 178 control heating according to control parameters stored in computer code in memory 179. The parameters may be programmed or updated according to the user's preference through data updates received from the computing device by the transmitting / receiving element 180, similar to those described above. A socket 186 is provided for recharging the battery. Again, similar to those described above, control parameters or other data can be provided to memory 179 via a wired connection to a computing device.

  In the case of the holder as in this example, the flavor can be completely added to the conventional flammable smoking article according to the user's preference or request. This allows for a considerably more sophisticated addition of flavor to the tobacco or filter material than to add flavor to the tobacco or filter material, so that any puff contains flavor at a given level that cannot be changed by the user. Make it possible.

  Alternatively, similarly to the switch operation function of the electronic cigarette of FIG. 11, the holder may be configured for switch operation type flavor control.

  FIG. 15 is a schematic sectional view illustrating an example of a holder configured using a switch. The holder 100 has a switch 176 (of any desired type as described above) located on the outer wall of the holder that operates to connect the battery 154 to the heating element of the flavor provider 25. , Heating and release of flavor. As described with respect to the example of an electronic cigarette, if possible, to limit the operation of the heating element for safety reasons and to preserve the flavor only by the time the user is sucking through the holder 100 Control electronics 128 having a pressure sensor can be included. This type of holder allows the user to add flavor to any puff of flammable smoking articles by simply operating a switch, and the flavor delivery device can be replaced to change the flavor whenever needed. Can be

  Further, a smoking article holder configured to include a flavor providing device may be used to retain and add flavor to an electronic aerosol delivery system (such as an electronic cigarette) instead of a combustible smoking article. Thus, a "smoking article holder" refers to one that includes a holder configured to hold a flammable smoking article, an electronic aerosol delivery system, or both.

  It should be noted that it is also possible to provide the function of a PCB or other electronic device that directly controls the operation of the heating element on the flavor providing device, rather than an electronic cigarette or smoking article holder. The processor, memory, and data transceiver may be mounted on a support member and provided with appropriate circuitry and power supplies. This increases the cost and complexity of the flavor-providing device, and in some cases increases its size, but allows the device to be used with electronic cigarettes having PCBs that are not configured for flavor-providing control. For example, a user can replace a disposable cartridge assembly component with one configured to receive a flavor providing device while retaining the existing reusable body component of an electronic cigarette.

  In all of the examples described above, conventional general electric heating by resistance has been used to release flavor from the flavor providing device. The device has one or more heating elements that can be connected to a power source (battery) by wires, leads, etc., to generate a current flowing through the heating elements so that their temperature increases. Has become. The amount of heat generated depends on the electric resistance of the heating element and the amount of current flowing therethrough or the voltage (potential difference) applied to both ends thereof.

  Alternatively, the flavor providing device can use induction heating (inductive heating) to generate heat within the heating element. Induction heating is a phenomenon that typically allows conductive materials made of metal to be heated by electromagnetic induction. Thus, an electronic oscillator is provided to generate a high frequency alternating current passing through the electromagnet. The electromagnet then generates a fast alternating magnetic field which is arranged to penetrate the object to be heated, in this case the heating element of the flavor providing device. The magnetic field generates an eddy current in the conductive material, which generates heat due to the resistance of the material. Thus, induction heating also requires a current to generate heat from the electrical resistance of the material, but the current is not the current obtained by the potential difference applied from the power supply, but the eddy current generated by the external magnetic field It is.

  Thus, the configuration of a heating element having electrical contacts that are electrically connected to a power source, such as a battery, is a heating element located within a magnetic field range of an electromagnet driven by an associated electronic oscillator that receives power from the battery or other power source. It can be replaced with an element. Although the examples described above include electrical contacts for the heating element, such physical contact is not required in induction heating, and the connection between the heating element and the power supply is provided by an oscillator and an electromagnet (or the Other configurations for generating a strong magnetic field). Supplying power to the heating element will involve the application of a magnetic field to create an eddy current instead of a direct current through the physical electrical connection supplying power in the example of resistive heating. In configurations involving two or more heating elements, the magnetic field generation is segmented (e.g., by providing an electromagnet for each heating element) such that the heating elements are individually actuated by the action of the corresponding electromagnet. can do.

  The various embodiments described herein have been presented only to assist in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples of the embodiments, and are not exhaustive and / or limiting. The advantages, embodiments, examples, features, features, structures and / or other aspects described herein are considered to be limiting on the scope of the invention as defined in the claims or equivalents of the claims. It should be understood that other embodiments may be used and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may consist solely of appropriate combinations of the disclosed elements, configurations, features, parts, steps, means, and the like, other than those specifically described herein. Or may consist essentially of these. The present disclosure may also include other inventions that are not presently described in the claims but may be described in the future.

Claims (20)

A flavor providing device for adding flavor to an aerosol stream generated by a smoking article,
An electrical heating element configured to be connected to a power source;
A support member that supports the heating element, the support member supporting an electrical contact configured to connect the heating element to a power source contained in an electronic aerosol supply system or a smoking article holder;
To receive heat from the heating element, comprising a part of the flavoring material disposed as a layer covering a part of the surface of the support member ,
The flavoring material includes a flavor material held on a carrier material,
The flavoring material can form a vapor, the carrier material is softenable under heating,
Providing a flavor, wherein the supply of power to the heating element applies heat to the flavoring material such that at least a portion of the carrier material is softened and at least a portion of the flavoring material is released as steam. apparatus.   2. The flavor providing of claim 1, wherein the smoking article is a flammable smoking article, and wherein the flavor providing device is configured to be provided on a smoking article holder for the flammable smoking article comprising the power source. apparatus.   The flavor providing device according to claim 1, wherein the smoking article is an electronic aerosol supply system including the power supply, and the flavor providing device is configured to be provided in the electronic aerosol supply system.   The flavor providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the heating element is configured to receive supply of power by electromagnetic induction. The flavor providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , further comprising one or more separate portions of the flavoring material. 6. The flavor providing apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein one or more other portions of the flavor supply are disposed on each of the opposing surfaces of the support member. The flavor providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , further comprising one or more other heating elements configured to be supplied with electric power individually. The flavor-providing device according to claim 7 , comprising an individual part of the flavor material arranged to receive heat from each of the heating elements. The flavor providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , wherein the carrier material includes a wax material. To supply power to the heating element in order to soften at least a portion of said carrier material, comprising supplying electric power to provide sufficient heat to melt at least a portion of said carrier material, wherein Item 10. The flavor providing device according to any one of Items 1 to 9 . An electronic aerosol delivery system, a component of the electronic aerosol delivery system, or a smoking article holder,
A socket for receiving the flavor-providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 10 at a position in the electronic aerosol supply system or the smoking article holder in electrical contact with a power supply,
An electronic aerosol supply system, wherein the flavor material released by the flavor providing device from the socket is allowed to flow into an air flow path of an aerosol flow through the electronic aerosol supply system or the smoking article holder; A component of an electronic aerosol delivery system, or a smoking article holder. The electronic aerosol delivery system, a component of the electronic aerosol delivery system, or a smoking article holder according to claim 11 , wherein the socket is configured to allow a user to remove and replace the flavor providing device. An electronic aerosol delivery system according to claim 11 or 12 , comprising an external user-driven switch operable to disconnect the electrical heating element from the power supply. Or a smoking article holder. An electronic aerosol delivery system according to claim 11 or 12 , comprising a computer processor configured to execute computer code stored in a memory to control the supply of power from the power supply to the heating element. Components of the aerosol delivery system or smoking article holder. 15. The electronic aerosol delivery system, component of an electronic aerosol delivery system, or a smoking article holder of claim 14 , further comprising a data transceiver configured to receive updated computer code for storage in the memory. A computer processor configured to execute computer code stored in memory to control the supply of power from the power supply to the heating element; and receiving updated computer code for storage in the memory. The flavor providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 10 , further comprising a data transceiver configured. Computer code executable by a computer processor,
Inputting control parameters related to adding flavor to the aerosol stream generated by the electronic aerosol delivery system or the flammable smoking article from the flavor providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 10 and 16. Displaying a user interface that prompts the user to:
Computer code operable to cause a computer device to transmit data representing the control parameter to a data transceiver in an electronic aerosol delivery system, a component of the electronic aerosol delivery system, a smoking article holder or a flavor providing device. A storage device to store. A method of adding flavor to an aerosol stream generated by a smoking article,
An electrical heating element and a support member supporting the heating element, the support member supporting an electrical contact configured to connect the heating element to a power source contained in an electronic aerosol supply system or a smoking article holder; and A flavor providing device comprising: a part of a flavoring material arranged to receive heat from the electric heating element, wherein the flavoring material includes a flavor material held by a carrier material, Disposing a flavor-providing device in an electronic aerosol delivery system or a smoking article holder, wherein the flavor material is capable of generating steam and the carrier material is softenable under heating;
While the user is attracting the electronic aerosol supply system or the smoking article holder, to supply power from the power source in the electronic aerosol supply system or the smoking article holder to the heating element, the flavor by the supply of the electric power Applying heat to the feedstock to soften at least a portion of the carrier material and release at least some of the flavoring material as steam;
Providing the released vapor to an aerosol stream flowing in an air flow path through the electronic aerosol delivery system or the smoking article holder. Transmitting control parameter data from a computer device to a data transceiver in the electronic aerosol supply system, the smoking article holder or the flavor providing device;
The electronic aerosol delivery system, in the smoking article holder or the flavor providing device, using a computer processor that executes computer code according to the control parameter data, and controlling the supply of power to the heating element, wherein Item 19. The method according to Item 18 . A flavor providing device for adding flavor to a suctionable air stream generated by an electronic cigarette,
A support member;
An electrical heating element provided on the support member,
An electrical contact provided on the support member configured to electrically connect between the battery and the electrical heating element in the electronic cigarette when the flavor providing device is inserted into the electronic cigarette; When,
A portion of the flavoring material disposed on the support member to cover the electrical heating element, wherein the flavoring material comprises a flavor material held in a matrix material, wherein the flavor material is A portion of a flavoring material capable of forming a vapor and melting when the matrix material is heated;
A flavor providing device, wherein the supply of electrical power to the electrical heating element applies heat to the flavor material, melting the matrix material and releasing a flavorant vapor.

Images